With autumn yard cleanup and tree trimming chores in full swing, Pepco urges customers to remember that electricity is a powerful and potentially deadly force and to take appropriate safety measures.

Avoid power lines when carrying long or tall items, such as ladders, scaffolding and tree saws. Hold them parallel to the ground and be sure to look up before raising them to check that they're clear of any overhead wires.

Touching a power line with any part of your body or most objects can result in serious injury or death. Electricity can move through conductive materials such as water, metal, wood, aluminum, strings and plastics.

When trimming branches, check for power lines in or near trees before using a ladder or scaffolding. Certain critical clearances are required by law, and a minimum of 10 feet must be maintained when working below or adjacent to power lines.

"Safety is our top priority and we encourage our customers to be aware of overhead lines while working outdoors this fall and year-round," said Donna Cooper, Pepco region president. "If you are working with or around electricity, please be alert and be safe."

Find additional safety information and tips at www.pepco.com, on Facebook at www.facebook.com/pepcoconnect and on Twitter at www.twitter.com/pepcoconnect. Our mobile app is available at www.pepco.com/mobileapp.